Stereo 3D camera captures untextured surfaces

IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH has unveiled a stereo 3D camera that is designed for robot vision applications with working distances ranging from 280mm to 1400mm and for variable fields of view. The camera can capture both static and moving objects at up to 30 frames per second.

The Ensenso camera works according to a "projected texture stereo vision," and integrates two global shutter CMOS sensors with WVGA resolution together with an infrared pattern projector. It projects a random pattern of dots onto the object to be captured, allowing structures that are not visible or only faintly visible on the surface to be enhanced or highlighted.

The object is then captured by the two image sensors in accordance with the stereo vision principle and its 3D coordinates are reconstructed or calculated for each and every pixel using geometric relations based on the triangulation principle.

This means that, even if parts with a relatively monotone surface are placed in the bin, a virtually seamless and detailed 3D image of the entire surface can be generated without additional technical effort.

The available focal lengths of 3.6mm to 16mm can cover a wide range of distances and sizes. The camera module fits in a 150x45x45mm enclosure, and comes with a USB connection. It will soon be available with a GigE connection.

The Ensenso is ready for immediate use and delivers 3D data out of the box. This means it can be installed straight away. The robots can be calibrated to work with the camera using a calibration plate mounted on the robot's arm. The images captured can be analysed by all standard machine vision programs, such as Halcon.